Technology breakthrough in Remote Handling Manipulator Using in Nuclear Environment

The key technologies for remote handling manipulator using in nuclear environment developed jointly by ASIPP and other institutions have demonstrated “beyond expectation” progress, a conclusion that the expert panel drew at the project acceptance preparation meeting on Nov 28 2015. Now the project is fairly ready for final acceptance of Ministry of Science of Technology of China (MOST) in the mid of 2016.

The robot systems developed in the project in the past 4 years include an Articulated In-vessel Viewing System, a Fine Operation Master-slave Robot, a Snake-like Robot with anti-radiation fiber imaging, a Transfer Cask and an Inspection & Rescue Vehicle with universal wheels. During the day, the demonstration was carried out on remote handling test platform which is based on full size of EAST vacuum vessel.

The Articulated In-vessel Viewing System covers a 180 degree range along toroidal direction, displaying its extensible and inspection ability on the test platform. With this function, the surface of in-vessel components can be examined roughly in far distance and finely in near distance. The Fine Operation Master-slave Robot accomplishes grasping graphite tile of the first wall. The Snake-like Robot with fiber imaging spreads its each joint, while the fiber material can endure nuclear radiation for a certain long time. The Transfer Cask finishes accurately the alignment with mockup port, and it also successfully transports the mockup port plug into the cask. The Inspection & Rescue Vehicle moves along a pre-fixed path and under manual control. At the same time it lightens the power button on the mockup operating platform as well.

Although more work needs to be done, before final acceptance, including optimization and necessary testing, these manipulators are a breakthrough in nuclear environment remote handling technology in China. (ZHOU Zibo reports)

Leaders and experts before the test platform

Articulated In-vessel Viewing System in the test platform

The demonstration of Fine Operation Master-slave Robot

The demonstration of Inspection & Rescue Vehicle along guided path